So I’ve tentatively taken the plunge and have decided to join the madness that is NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month).

Each November, thousands of writers around the world attempt to write a 50,000 word novel in 30 days.  It is the Boston Marathon of writing. 

The challenge is a bit daunting…my total word count for this website might approach the 50K mark.  But, like a marathon, the main goals will be:

1. To see how far I can go
2. To go farther than I ever have
3. To have fun and maybe learn something about writing along the way

I truly don’t know if I’ll hit the goal…and many writers don’t (at least that’s what they tell me).  There are also writers participating that write 50,000 word pieces several times a year for a living (bastards…).  The fact is (I’m reassured) is that it is a contest but not a competition.  One of the aspects that is attractive to me is that the event seems to gather a very supportive community of scribblers that truly feel your pain along the way.

So, during the month of November, you may see less of me here than you do now.  I know…you’re completely crushed and will just have to go back to surfing QVC or German porn.  If you’re out there and want to take the plunge too, let me know.  Go to their website, create an account, and become my “Writing Buddy”.  My user name is “Pencilneckgeek”.  And if you don’t want to take the plunge, a few words and acts of encouragement along the way will be much appreciated.

If you know me in “real life”, please bear with me during that month.  I already tend to be a bit hermetic and may become a bit more so along the way.  I may lock myself away from time to time to write and get a little further on the manuscript.  Once again, try to bear with me and offer me a little encouragement…it’s just a few weeks, after all.

Now I just have to figure out what to write about…